Awe of Averages

awe[1] (noun) an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder that is inspired by authority or by the sacred or sublime. It is widely understood that the more common an experience or observation, the less special it feels. Somehow, simply by our daily awareness of something, it becomes regular. I have found myself wondering about this lately, as my understanding of “typical” has tipped upside down. It is now normal to discuss the “new normal.” Whatever that is. In fact, that phrase comes up so often I…

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Embracing Mystery

The word “mystery” is mentioned over and over in our scriptures. It is a beautiful word and draws us in, if we let it.Doctrinally, a biblical mystery might refer to something revealed that was previously hidden, like Old Testament prophecies becoming fulfilled. Or, we may read something about God that we cannot completely comprehend, such as the unconditional love of God. Likewise, trying to logically understand the Holy Trinity is another major mystery. I would even say (as a lay person) the miracles…

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